North Shore Romantic Getaways

Ahhhhh, love!

Personally, we don’t think there is a more romantic place on earth to watch the sunrise and sunset or snuggle up with your darling next to a crackling fire and listen to the crashing of the lake on the shore. A North Shore romantic getaway should be on the list yearly for you and your beau/belle. Just sayin’.

We’ve assembled an itinerary for your romantic getaway that we think captures the best of North Shore Lodging, Dining and a few ideas for things to do along the North Shore when you and your loved one visit.

As always, all recommendations are vetted by the editors and the community here at North Shore Experiences.

North Shore, MN Romantic Getaways

Depending on how far up the North Shore your romantic getaway takes you, you may want to stay in Duluth, near Lutsen/Tofte or Grand Marais. These are our favorite places to return to each night with our loved ones, or, if you’re so inclined, never leave the room.

Duluth Romantic Getaway Lodging

In Duluth, you’re going to want to stay close to the action and the action is in Canal Park. In which case, we recommend Canal Park Lodge to stay with your loved one. With more than 100 rooms and an entire side facing Lake Superior, great views and great access make this a perfect choice for staying in the city.

A 2014 Mark of Excellence winner from Trip Advisor, Canal Park Lodge keeps you and your loved one connected to the action of Duluth when you want to be, but gives you the peace and quiet when you would like to be alone.

Lutsen/Tofte Romantic Getaway Lodging

If you’re staying around the Lutsen Tofte area then hand’s down we recommend the Bluefin Family of resorts. A collection of five resorts to fit your style, Bluefin offers a great resort experience with dining, entertainment and access to nearby outdoor experiences without ever having to stray too far from your room. Whether you stay at Bluefin Bay, Surfside, Temperance Landing or Waves of Sup erior Spa your visit will be one you and your loved one remember.

Some of the resorts are also pet friendly if you need to travel with your four legged companion as well.

Grand Marais Romantic Getaway Lodging

Grand Marais is the perfect place to visit for the couple that wants to shop, dine or be adventurous (or maybe all of the above?).

The town of Grand Marais, Minnesota sits on a bay on Lake Superior. If your romantic getaway takes you and your loved on up highway 61 to Grand Marais then you’ll want to look into staying at East Bay Suites.

Request either a lake view or village view room, these suites also include pet friendly accommodations. Newly remodeled, most units have in-unit fire places and kitchens or kitchenettes with a balcony for star gazing, lake viewing or a glass of wine with your loved one.

North Shore Romantic Getaways – Dining

If you plan to eat out and not cook in during your romantic getaway, you’re in luck. The North Shore is home to fantastic dining options. Each of the options below are worth a trip, even if you aren’t staying in the town that they are located.

Gunflint Tavern

In Grand Marais, watch the sunset over the harbor and enjoy a craft beer and spectacular ethnic and american cuisine. The Gunflint Tavern and Brewhouse is home to some unique dishes, locally brewed beer and great local flavor (the people and conversations are fantastic!). Thursday – Sunday night they have live music as well which makes the place a great spot to hang out with your loved one.

Bluefin Grille

Fine dining comes to the shores of Lake Superior at the Bluefin Grille. For those staying at the Bluefin Family of Resorts in Lutsen/Tofte, what a treat. It’s well worth the trip for those staying elsewhere. The chef at Bluefin has standards on the menu but also adds some great seasonal creations that are inspired. A relaxed space with another great view but make sure you are early for dinner if you arrive on a weekend.

Pickwick Restaurant & Pub

Since 1914, Pickwick Restaurant & Pub in Duluth has been serving up steaks, fish and chops just the way we like ’em. Cooked to perfection and order. Winner of a James Beard award in 2007 and located in the historic Canal Park area, Pickwick is a must if you and your loved plan your romantic getaway in Duluth.

To Do

There is so much to do on Minnesota’s North Shore. Depending on what inspires you and your loved one, your romantic getaway to the North Shore of Lake Superior could be adventurous, educational or relaxing.

For Adventurers

If you and your loved one want to get out and explore the North Shore, explore our north shore hikes section.

In particular, we recommend checking out the Honeymoon Bluff if your visiting Spring – Fall. It’s a short hike with a built-in overlook of Hungry-Jack lake and a great place to go watch the sunset. We recommend packing a picnic if you and your loved one hike up there to catch the sunset.

The view from Honeymoon Bluff Overlook

If you’re traveling in the winter, we recommend taking the trek up Minnesota’s highest point: Eagle Mountain. It’s a bit of a haul (about 6 miles round trip) but well worth it for the views. Also, taking the hike in the winter is a bit easier than battling bugs and the swampier areas in the Spring – Fall.

For Knowledge Seekers

Hands down, for those who love culture, stop off and visit the Glensheen Mansion on your way through Duluth. History and mystery abound at this turn of the century mansion on the shores of Lake Superior.

If you visit Grand Marais, the Cook County history center, just off Wisconsin St (the “main downtown drag”) is full of great history of the town and shipping in the area.

Just Relax

Of course, you can always just relax and take in the views from your room. The big lake has a magical, therapeutic sound to it as it crashes ashore.

Maybe order you and your loved one an in-room couples massage?

Either way, Minnesota’s North Shore is certain to delight both you and your loved one on your next romantic getaway.

Book Your Stay

Email Newsletter

Sign up for email updates when we publish new north shore experiences content.